Developing lasting Chinese partnerships

Since 1985, Ikaros Shipping & Brokerage Co (ISBC) has focused on a strategic growth path. Active in the dry bulk segment, its fleet of Japanese built Handysize, Handymax and Supramax are among some of the most modern vessels in the industry. With an eighth new-build scheduled for delivery in September, ISBC is building a reputation for development within the international shipping community.

ISBC's expertise is founded on high standards of safety and delivery of quality services. Working with leading charterers such as Cargill, Daeyang Shipping, Canpotax and NYK, the company handles commodities such as coal, alumina, fertiliser, grain, sugar, wheat and steel. In recent years, ISBC has successfully developed its business with Chinese charterers.

"As of today, 70 per cent of our chartering business is with Chinese companies," says Panagiotis Christodoulatos, managing director of ISBC. "We enjoy strong relations with Sinochart and Eastern Ocean with three of our ships chartered with them. They have been very professional with regard to our business relationship."

ISBC's Supramax and Handymax vessels are equipped with cranes and grabs which ensure maximum flexibility for "self-handling" of cargos in areas where port facilities are insufficient. "We often have repairs and maintenance work carried out in Chinese dry-docks and have been impressed by our partners' fast turnaround, quality of workmanship and high standards of service. I've been equally pleased by the Chinese made equipment such as grabs that are fitted into our vessels," Christodoulatos says.

ISBC is well positioned to strengthen its relationship with Chinese charterers.

"China is a barometer for worldwide trade," Christodoulatos says. "We expect the country to continue to play an important role in the development of our industry. We have always followed a certain path with the people we work alongside in China and with the companies we have dealt with. When it comes to developing our chartering business we intend to build on the relationships we have developed and continue working closely with our Chinese counterparts."